Snow Guards for Metal Roof Buildings

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Hiring A Contractor To Install Your Snow Guards

The snow is finally melting away and the flowers are beginning to bloom. That means one thing…roof and gutter repairs!!! While the majority of our snow guards can be installed by just about any DIY-er, sometimes the job is better left to a skilled professional. Typically, contacting a roofer is the next step. Finding the right roofer, however, can be a challenging and confusing task. Below is a list of helpful tips to assist you in choosing the right roofing contractor and getting the best service for your money.

Insurance is a must

Make sure that your contractor has worker’s compensation and liability insurance. Ask to see the certificates and actually call the insurance carrier to confirm that they are valid.

This keeps all bids on a level playing field, knowing that part of the cost of the roof and the service being provided to you is protected with the security of coverage.

Choose a local contractor

Make sure that the company that you choose is local. This means that they are not just operating locally now, but have an established business and reputation in the community.

Customer’s, all too often, get into situations where they need a repair or other warranty work, only to find that the company they hired to install their roof closed, moved or vanished. It is very easy to provide a piece of paper, but the warranty is only as good as the longevity and reputation of the company.

Price isn’t everything

Never choose a company based on price. Cheap bids drive down the market and anyone with overhead and proper insurance has to establish pricing to cover such costs.

Those that do work on the side or are just working out of a pick-up truck can always do the work cheaper. But in the long run, you get what you pay for. Customers that are sold on price, as their sole criteria, ultimately end up spending more money to fix problems, and many of these problems would have been covered under a workmanship guarantee by a reputable established roofing company.

Avoid storm chasers

Steer clear of the knock-on-the-door, “We were in your neighborhood” roofers. This is just canvassing and selling. Pick a roofer from a referral or a sign in your area that has a satisfied client on the other end.

If you are approached by this technique, call your agent and ask for a recommendation. The majority of these roofers will tell you that you have storm damage and have you sign a letter of intent. Don’t be pressured by forceful tactics. You never have to sign an intent letter. Wait to see the contracts and take your time in reviewing.

Get job details in writing

We suggest that you don’t give funds until the work is complete. Make sure that you are satisfied with the result and that the terms of payment were discussed prior to the job and adhered to by both parties.

Make sure that you ask how long a job will take. You need to have a clear idea of what size of crew they will have and a completion day.

Communication is paramount

Did they return your calls? Did they send the documentation that you asked them to send? Did they follow through? If you answered “no” to any of these questions, then make sure you communicate your concerns to the company representative.

If they still can’t make good on their promises, walk away. Communication is key to every business. If you aren’t getting what you need on the front end when they are trying to get your business, what will happen once you have committed the work to them?

Spring is the perfect time to begin thinking about purchasing and installing snow guards on your roof. Do it while it is fresh in your mind. Take a look at your roof and gutters, then remind yourself that you do not want to pay for damage ever again. Decide if you are able to install yourself of if you need to hire a contractor. If an installer is needed, follow the steps laid out above and you will be on your way to a pleasant non-stressful experience.